S Thailand D6 April 2024

13 April 2024

Day 6

Ranong 

Isthmus of Kra is the narrowest point in the Malayan peninsula, only 53 km coast to coast, separating the Andaman Sea from South China Sea. 

The far side is Myanmar, separated by Kra Buri. A lighthouse nearby for ship guidance. 

This is also the furthest point for my road trip and will be turning back heading for Krabi over the next few days.

Kra Buri Port and Town Centre was the next photo stop on the return journey. 

This pier provides a boat taxi between Thailand and Myanmar, taking no more than 2 minutes. The town centre was quite busy. Motorcycles taxi with sidecars provoke public transportation. 

On the drive back to Ranong. I made a few stops for photos. This is the bridge over Lam Liang 

Anothet stop at Wat Chong Khao Temple. Temples here are less elaborate than other towns in Thailand. 

Khao (Hill) Fa Chi viewpoint. Overlooking the Kra Buri (River). The far side is Myanmar. This by far the most scenic spot on the Kra Peninsula. 

I had lunch at a village near La-Un river, watching a group of Thais celebrating Songkran, throwing water at those who are keen.

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Nearby, there was supposed to have a WW2 museum. instead only an old locomotive is displayed. There were monkeys loitering everywhere. 

River La-Un next to the train locomotive. 

The next stop was Ranong Port. Another ferry point to Myanmar. This port also handle freighter.

Today, Thailand celebrates Songkran Festival. Water stations were set up along streets.The Thai, across all ages and gender merrily spray and splash water at pedestrians and cars.  My car as splashed several times.

Songkran marks the beginning of a New Year for the Thais. Splashing water wash away the old year and usher in the new year. Its kind of a blessing, that why many Thais welcome being splashed with water.